Courteous
S'More Cub Scout Fun
2016 Pack Meeting Suggestion
Cubmaster Section
Linda Black 801-943-1334
[email protected]
Shauna Pulley 801-508-7643
[email protected]
A SCOUT IS COURTEOUS Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
A Scout is polite to everyone and always uses good manners.
HOW DOES “S’MORE CUB SCOUT FUN” RELATE TO THIS POINT OF THE SCOUT LAW?
Summertime is a great time to get outside and to have S’more Cub Scout Fun! This month, enjoy one of the last of the
summer evenings at a pack campfire. Cub Scouts can experience fun in a campfire program full of songs, skits, awards,
and great memories. At the campfire, the Cub Scouts will treat each other with politeness because each boy knows that is
how he wants to be treated.
NOTE TO CUBMASTER
Pack meetings are best when they are no longer an hour and a half in length. Pack meeting plans are guides and can be
adjusted to fit the needs of your pack.
PRE-OPENING / GATHERING ACTIVITIES
Preopening Activity
ART OF BEING COURTEOUS Cub Scouting and Boy
Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Give each Cub Scout a piece of paper and something to draw
with (crayons, colored pencils, etc.). Have them draw a picture or
series of pictures in which they tell a story of something they did
to demonstrate being courteous. Then have them finish by
drawing a self-portrait showing how they felt after completing
the courteous act.
Name the Tree: Pow-Wow Book Change one letter in each of
these words to find the name of a tree:
Mine Fit Pillow Bench
Oar Elk Asp Jolly
Answers: Pine; Fir; Willow; Beech; Oak; Elm; Ash; Holly
Nature did it First (Baltimore Area Council) Pow-Wow Book
For the most part...there exists a counterpart in nature for most modern
inventions. Here is a list of animals and the invention they utilize. Try
matching them.
1. Bat
A. Parachute
2. Armadillo
B. Snowshoes
3. Chameleon
C. Anesthetic
4. Fish
D. Helicopter
5. Flying Squirrel
E. Suction Cup
6. Squid
F. Hypodermic Needle
7. Hummingbird
G. Radar
8. Scorpion
H. Camouflage
9. Snake
I. Electricity
10. Abalone
J. Tank
11. Caribou
K. Jet Propulsion
answers: 1-G, 2-J, 3-H, 4-I, 5-A, 6-K, 7-D. 8-F, 9-C, 10-E, 11-B.
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
Respect Wildlife True/False: Pow-Wow Book courtesy of : Jim
Poole and Jeff Marion
True/False….1: It is good to learn about wildlife thru quiet
observation. It is OK to approach or follow wildlife to get a better
look.
True/False….2. Binoculars, sporting scopes and telephoto lenses are
good for viewing and approach or follow wildlife to get a better
look.
True/False…3. Although wildlife can adapt to consistent patterns of
human activity you are too close if your presence or actions get a
response from wildlife.
True/False…4. Large groups of people usually cause less damage to
the environment and don’t disturb wildlife as much as small groups
True/ False…5. You should plan your trip to avoid critical or
sensitive wildlife habitats or times when wildlife are nesting and
rearing their young
True/False…6. Quick movements and loud noises are good for
animals since they warn the animals that a humble is near and give
them a chance to flee.
True/False…7. If you are in bear country, it is best to be very quiet
so you will see bear before it sees you.
True/False…8 Touching an animal is not a good idea, since it may
have rabies. If you find a sick animal or an animal in trouble, it is
best to leave it alone and notify a game warden.
True/False…9. You should not feed wildlife or allow them to obtain
human food since they may begin to leave their normal habitat and
become nuisance animals or get hit by cars and chased by dogs.
True/False..10. Human food is not nutritious for wildlife and can
cause tooth decay and gum infection.
(1 F 2 T 3 T 4 F 5 T 6 F 7 F 8 T 9 T 10 T)
1
◆◆Marshmallow Round-Robin 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Set up: Set up marshmallow games and
challenges for the Cub Scouts and their
families to enjoy before the campfire. Verify
that there are no food restrictions such as
allergies. (Note that marshmallows are not
kosher.) Assign leaders/parents or guardians to
man stations. Please take into account that
using real marshmallows has drawbacks. First,
you are playing with food, and second they
become sticky when the air is humid. Please
consider using one or more of the alternatives
below:
Marshmallow alternatives:
• Packing peanuts can be used as a substitute in
many activities.
• Pool noodles can be cut into 2” lengths for
large marshmallow activities.
• Fake marshmallows from craft kits.
Environmental Note: Marshmallows, while
fun to eat for humans, are not good for our
animal friends. Have a “marshmallow
collection” of the area with all members of the
pack. All can help pick up the marshmallows
and dispose of them in a trash bag or trash can,
removing them from the area.
Marshmallow Distance Throw
Items needed: • Plastic cups
• Two individuals to make a team
• Large marshmallows
Instructions:
Player one takes five marshmallows to start.
Player two takes a plastic cup in which to
catch the marshmallows as they are thrown by
player one. The challenge to this game is that
player one must turn away (back to him) from
player two who is some distance away from
him at the catching line (determine how far
you want your distance required to be and
mark on ground with chalk or
masking/painter’s tape). Set a time limit (1–2
min). If player one and player two successfully
catch the five marshmallows before time is up,
they may get more marshmallows and try for a
higher score. Several teams can play at the
same time. Tallying of team scores is optional.
Roasting Stick Relay
Items needed:
• Sticks long enough for roasting
marshmallows
• Small or large marshmallows
Instructions:
Teams line up to move the marshmallow on
the ground with the roasting stick. They move
the marshmallow down a designated length
and around a marker (traffic cone or water
bottle) and back to the next in line to do the
same. The team that completes the relay first
wins. Marshmallows can be pushed with the
stick or hit with the stick like a golf ball.
Toss the Marshmallow
Items needed:
• 2 players
• Regular sized marshmallows
Instructions:
This game is played like the egg or water
balloon toss game. Partners face one another at
a close distance, tossing the marshmallow back
and forth and increasing the distance between
one another until the marshmallow drops.
Marshmallow Word Hunt
Items Needed:
• Large marshmallow
• Permanent marker
Instructions:
Put one letter each of the word
MARSHMALLOW on marshmallows. Hide
these “lettered marshmallows” in a large bowl
or a large inflatable swimming pool along with
packing peanuts. The challenge is to find all
the letters needed to spell the word, correctly
place them in order showing the word, and
record the time it took to find them.
Variations:
• Include letters that do not spell the word to
make it more challenging to find the letters
needed.
• Change the word to S’MORES, or even a full
sentence such as the Cub Scout motto, “Do
Your Best.”
Marshmallow Hole-in-One
Items Needed:
• Plastic golf putter
• Large marshmallows (or substitute a pool
noodle cut into 2-inch pieces)
• Large plastic or tin can
Instructions:
Cub Scouts can do their best by putting the
large marshmallow toward the large can and
hopefully make a Hole-in-One!
Marshmallow Balloon Shooter Option
You’ll need:
• Plastic cups or clean yogurt containers (9ounce containers work)
• Balloons (12-inch balloons work)
• Mini marshmallows or marshmallow
substitutes
• Scissors
And here’s what you need to do:
1. Cut the bottom part off of your plastic cup.
Note: It helps to double up the cups and cut off
the bottom third.
2. Tie a knot at the end of your balloon and cut
off about 1/2 inch from the other end.
Now stretch the balloon over the top part of
the cup where the lip is. Otherwise the cup will
bend too much when the balloon is applied.
Put your marshmallow inside the cup on the
knotted center, then aim the cup away from
yourself. Be sure the distance to the target is
safe and free of people. Pull back on the outer
knot and launch away!
Launch a Marshmallow
Items needed:
• Marshmallow catapult
• Large marshmallows
Instructions:
Cubs try launching marshmallows a far as they
can with a marshmallow catapult. Have a
volunteer help measure the distance of each
launch for fun!
Marshmallow Shooting Fun
Items Needed:
• Marshmallow shooter
• Small marshmallows
• Target
Instructions:
Have Cub Scouts use marshmallow shooters
and shoot at a target. (See the directions that
follow.)
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
Marshmallow Catapults
Instructions:
1. Take seven craft sticks and tie them together
tightly at one end with a rubber band.
2. Tie a second rubber band tightly around the
other end of the seven craft sticks.
3. Take two additional craft sticks and tie them
together tightly at one end with a rubber band.
4. Insert the seven stick bundle between the
two sticks in the two stick bundle as close to
the rubber band as possible.
5. Tie a rubber band in a cross fashion, joining
the two-stck bundles.
6. Tie a plastic spoon to the top of one of the
sticks from the two-stick bundle.
2
DUTY TO GOD (PRAYER) / DEVOTIONAL
Prayer Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Almighty, please watch over us as we enjoy the outdoors that you have created. Watch over us as we shoot arrows and air rifles, and take part in
other fun sports. Help us to remember to care for the earth and its creatures as we enjoy our time in the outdoors. Most of all, keep our families happy
and safe as we enjoy the warm weather and our time together. AMEN.
◆◆Opening Prayer 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
This evening as we gather for S’more Cub Scout Fun at this campfire, let us be kind and considerate to one another as the fire glows and we feel the
warmth that Scouting brings into each of our hearts.
OPENING / FLAG CEREMONIES
Opening Ceremonies
S’MORES Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide
2015-2016
Six Cub Scouts hold signs with letters that spell S-M-O-R-E- S. The boys
should be in a semicircle in front of the Cubmaster.
Cubmaster: A good time outdoors during the summer can be had by all.
One of the most enjoyable times is a campfire with its fun, but best of all
its food. The highlight of the evening is the s’more.
Cub #1: S - Sizzling. The fire needs good coals that are sizzling hot.
Cub #2: M - Marshmallow. It needs to be gooey, but not burnt.
Cub #3: O - Open. Unwrapping the chocolate to get ready.
Cub #4: R – Ready. Squishing the marshmallow and chocolate between
the graham crackers.
Cub #5: E – Eating. The joy of putting it in my mouth and enjoying the
tastes.
Cub #6: S – Sigh—the sound I make when I’ve finished eating it!
there, staying on the paths and trails, and keeping it beautiful for others. I
will do my part!”
All: “We will all DO OUR BEST!”
OutDoor Code: Pow-Wow Book
As an American, I will do my best to:
Leader: One of my favorite hobbies is camping. As our opening today, I
would like to read the Outdoor Code:
Cub 1: (carries a Fire bucket and shovel) Be Clean In My Outdoors
Manners. I will treat the outdoors as a heritage to be improved for our
greater enjoyment. I will keep my trash and garbage out of America’s
waters, fields, woods and roadways.
Cub 2: (carries a Fire Bucket and shovel.) Be careful with fires. I will
prevent wildfire. I will build my fire in a safe place and be sure it is out
before I leave.
Cub 3: (carries camera to “shoot” wildlife) Be Considerate In The
Outdoors. I will treat public and private property with respect. I will
OUTDOORS Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning
remember that use of the outdoors is a privilege I can lose by abuse.
Guide 2015-2016
Cub 4: (carries a small tree) Be Conservation Minded. I will learn how
Eight Cub Scouts hold up posters, each with a letter from O-U-T-D-O-O- to practice good conservation of soil, waters, forest, minerals, grasslands
R-S on the front and the boy’s lines written in large print on the back.
and wildlife, and I will urge others to do the same. I will use
Cub #1: O - Observing animals!
sportsmanlike methods in all my outdoor activities.
Cub #2: U - Underwater games!
Leader: Let us keep this pledge in mind as we enjoy our day in the out of
Cub #3: T - Tracks and trails!
doors. Please stand for the presentation of the colors.
Cub #4: D - Dinner on the ground!
Cub #5: O - Owls in oak trees!
Opening/Flag Ceremonies: Pow-Wow Book
Cub #6: O - Outings and campouts!
(Needed: acorn, pine needles, feather, 4 Cubs, Cubmaster dresses as
Cub #7: R - Riding bikes!
Akela)
Cub #8: S - Stargazing!
Akela: (To the 4 Cubs) To test your manhood, I send each of you out into
Cubmaster: Boy, you guys really have opened my eyes to all the fun we the earth’s vast high country to bring back one of nature’s secrets. (Cubs
can have OUTDOORS!
exit and then return.
Akela: (to Cub 1) What secret have you brought and where did you find
◆◆Outdoor Code Opening Ceremony 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: it?
Cub 1: Akela, I return with great hunger, thirst and a painful sunburn. I
August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Note: This is performed by a preassigned den and they should receive the learned that a goung brave must plan ahead.
Akela: (to Cub 2) What lesson have you brought and where did you find
skit at least two weeks in advance of the pack meeting.
Den leader: “What a wonderful evening to be in the great outdoors! As it?
we begin our campfire, we would like to share with you our thoughts on Cub 2: I searched the hills and forests and bring an acorn. Just as a
mighty oak grows from a small acorn, if I have faith in myself, I can
what the Outdoor Code means to our den.
become strong.
Cub 1: “As an American, I will do my best to:”
Akela: (to Cub 3) What secret did you bring?
Cub 2: “Be clean in my outdoor manners.”
Cub 3: Akela, I climbed high into the distant mountains where the snow is
Cub 3: (Holding a trash bag) “Saying we will be clean in our outdoor
still deep and the air is cool. I bring green needles from the giant pine
manners means that we are courteous by taking with us any trash we
trees. Just as the pine needles remain green throughout the year, a brave
might create while outdoors and helping to clean up any trash we see
should always remain true to Cub Scouting…Do Your Best.
along the way. I’m ready!”
Akela: (to Cub 4) Akela, I traveled to the top of the mountain. From my
Cub 4: “Be careful with fire.”
Cub 5: (Holding a “fire danger doday” sign) “We as Scouts follow the high perch, I saw the wonders of God’s creations. I saw the eagle as it
soared high and free in the blue sky. I bring an eagle’s feather…a
rules of fire safety and know when and where we can build a fire. We
understand that each of us can help to prevent forest fires. I’ll be careful!” reminder of freedom and the vision we must have to protect and cherish it.
Akela: (to the audience) These braves have learned well. Nature shared
Cub 6: “Be considerate in the outdoors.”
Cub 7: “When we go outdoors, we enter the world of the birds, wildlife, her secrets with them. It is now their responsibility to live what they have
and nature that live there always. We are guests and we need to remember learned, to plan ahead, to have faith, to remain true to Scouting and to
cherish freedom. Will everyone now stand please and join me in repeating
we are in their world. I will be considerate!
the Pledge of Allegiance and the Scout Law and Promise.
Cub 8: “And be conservation-minded.”
Cub 9: “We can help protect the things we find in nature by leaving them
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
3
◆◆Welcome and Introductions 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
The Cubmaster welcomes new families, visitors and special guests by introducing them to the pack and thanking all who helped plan
and prepare for the pack meeting.
“Let’s welcome our families and guests with a stirring round of applause.”
(A Stirring Round of Applause: Move one hand as if stirring something in front of you while clapping with your other hand on your
knee.)
◆◆Den Demonstrations 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
If there is a den that needs to do some type of activity at a pack meeting for the completion of an
adventure, please insert here.
ADVANCEMENT & RECOGNITION CEREMONIES
Advancement Ceremony
NEW SCOUT PARENT INDUCTION Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Have parents of the new Bobcats stand in a group at the front.
Cubmaster: On your hand, you have five fingers. We use two when we make the Cub Scout sign. These two upright fingers, like the alert ears
of a Wolf, represent to OBEY and to HELP OTHER PEOPLE. The three folded fingers in our Cub Scout sign stand for the three letters in our
Law, F-H-G. These letters mean Follows, Helps, and Gives. They can also remind us of three things each Cub Scout respects— Freedom, Home,
and God.
All parents and all of our leaders want to do their best to teach Cub Scouts to learn to follow, to help, to give, to be fair and happy whatever the
game might be, and to respect their freedom, home, and God. Now, as part of your induction into the pack as the parent of a Bobcat, I ask you to
make the Cub Scout sign and repeat after me: “I (name) promise to do my best, to help my son and all the Cub Scouts in his den and pack to
follow the Cub Scout motto, “Do Your Best,” to help other people, to do their duty to God and their country, and to obey the Scout Law.”
As Cubmaster of this pack, I take pleasure in welcoming you into our Scouting family and active participation in Cub Scouting. May your days
ahead be happy, game, and fair.
◆◆Recognition
Adventure Loops and Pins: 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
(Note: Adventure loops and pins can be presented at a meeting or as immediate recognition in the den.)
By den, call the names of those Cub Scouts who have completed the month’s adventure to come forward.
• Have the den leader pass out the awards to the boys as they receive a Cub Scout handshake from the Cubmaster.
• If time allows, invite the den leader or den chief of the den to speak about the adventure work done for that month and have the den stand and
be recognized.
• Use a positive cheer to recognize their accomplishments.
Other options:
• Have the den stand and be recognized or come forward to receive certificates for the adventure they have completed. This option would be
appropriate for a den that has already received the adventure loop or pin.
• Adapt the advancement ceremony for the month’s theme into an adventure loop presentation if no rank badges are being presented.
◆◆Rank advancement
Campfire and Cub Scouting advancement ceremony 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Cubmaster: “A campfire and Cub Scouting have some things in common:
The boys of our pack who earn awards tonight have been patient, have kept the fire going and tended it by working very hard on their
adventures.”
Bobcats: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive their Bobcat rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or guardians.)
“Bobcats, The campfire must be secured by a set of stones known as the fire ring. You are those stones for our pack and your role is very
important.” (Award the Bobcat badges.)
Tigers: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive their Tiger rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or guardians.) “Tiger,
you are the water and shovel that we must always have handy at our campfire to keep us courteous in the outdoors.” (Award the Tiger badges.)
Wolf: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive their Wolf rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or guardians.) “Wolves,
you are tinder that is needed to light the fire. You are essential for starting the flame which is our Scouting program.” (Show a piece of tinder.
Award the Wolf badges.)
Bears: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive the Bear rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or guardians.) “Bears, you
are the kindling in our campfire, and you signify the hard work that you boys continue to do on the Cub Scout adventures.” (Show a piece of
kindling. Award them their Bear badges.)
Webelos: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive the Webelos rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or guardians.)
“Webelos Scouts, you are the fuel, the wood that provides steady warmth in our fire, and make sure you are have S’more fun in Cub Scouting!”
(Show a fuel log. Award them their Webelos badges.)
Arrow of Light: (Call the names of the boys who are to receive the Arrow of Light rank and ask them to step forward with their parents or
guardians.) “Arrow of Light Scouts, you are the spark that lights our campfire. You keep your fire lit as you grow each year and learn more and
more.” (Show a fire starter/ matches. Award them their Arrow of Light badges.) “Congratulations, boys, and thank you to all the members of the
pack (and our special guests) for joining us tonight. Now let’s have S’more Cub Scout Fun!”
Cubmaster: “Let’s congratulate our Scouts who achieved rank with the ‘Marshmallow Cheer.’ Put your marshmallow on a stick, and hold it
over the fire. It catches fire. Hurry and blow it out. Cool it. And say, ‘Now that’s S’more Cub Scout Fun’.”
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
4
Advancement: S’more Cub Fun 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Instructions: Print the tags below on card stock, and cut them out. Punch holes and use string or ribbon to tie them to baggies that have individual
S’more makings inside, including two graham crackers, chocolate, and a marshmallow.
If the weather is too hot and the chocolate will melt before the time designated to make s’mores at the campfire, another suggestion would be to
make small s’more magnets with cardboard for graham crackers, dark brown fun foam for chocolate and cotton balls for marshmallows. Glue them
together and put a small magnet on the back for Cub Scouts to take home as a remembrance of the campfire. Attach a tag to each s’more magnet.
Present “S’more Cub Scout Fun” kits or magnets to boys as awards earned are presented.
Advancements: Pow-Wow Book
Supplies: Awards are attached on the back of paw prints for the Tiger, Wolf, Bear Ranks. Use the Webelos sign for that rank. You can put the Paw
Prints on the wall or other visible places in the room.)
Cubmaster: The Cubs in our pack have been hiking and having outdoor fun this month. As they have been finding new things to do along the way,
many achievements have been completed along this Cub Scout Trail. The only problem is that these awards have been left out on the Cub Scout
Train where they were completed. So my trusty hiking buddy and myself are going to have to hit the trail ourselves in search of tonight’s awards.
(Cubmaster and Assistant Cubmaster begin scouring the room, lloking with binoculars, holding hand to brow as if to look ahead in the distance.
They stop and point to Tiger Paws.)
Ah ha!!! We have found evidence of Tiger prints along the Trail. This must mean that we have some Tiger Cubs who have completed a Big Idea
this month with their Tiger Cub Partners. Will the following boys and parents please come forward? (Present Tiger Paws.)
(Leaders continue on search until coming to Bobcat paw prints, Wolf paw prints, Bear paw prints, and Webelos “paw prints. Rank ceremonies for
each could be as follows…)
The Bobcat has alert ears and his movements are swift and sleek. We have several Bobcats here tonight who swiftly tracked the seven steps of
what it takes to be a Bobcat. Would the following Cubs and their parents come forward.
The Wolf is an animal of intelligence and loyalty. He has learned about his country and his home to which he will remain loyal. He has also
learned many ways of nature and new skills to help Mother Earth stay healthy. Would the following Wolfs and their parents come forward.
The Bear has always been the symbol of strength. The bear has learned many ways to use his strength to improve his body, his mind and his
environment. He has done this by continually exploring new ideas and learning new skills. Would the following Bears and their parents come
forward.
Webelos may not be named after an animal but it does stand for something special. Webelos means…We’ll Be Loyal Scouts…these Cub Scouts
have traveled far and have learned much. They have learned to take care of the environment. Webelos are apprentice outdoorsmen, foresters,
geologists and naturalists. They will keep learning on their trail to Boy Scouts. Would the following Cubs and their parents come forward to be
awarded their achievements for the month.
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
5
CUBMASTER’S MINUTE
COURTEOUS Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable
Planning Guide 2015-2016
A Scout is Courteous. What does that really mean when it
comes to outdoor activities? Well, we would normally think
of being respectful of each other and treating each other with
kindness when we talk and do activities. Leaving the outdoors
how we found it is also courteous to other people and to the
animals we share the planet with. It’s not as much fun on that
hike when you see litter on the side of the trail. It’s not safe
for the animals either, considering they could be injured by
swallowing plastic or getting something caught around their
neck. So when you’re sharing this great planet we call Earth
with others, try to be courteous and leave it as good or better
than you found it!
WATCHING THE CAMPFIRE Cub Scouting and Boy
Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Have you ever watched the campfire,
When the wood has fallen low,
And the ashes start to whiten
’Round the embers’ crimson glow?
With the night sounds all around you,
Making silence doubly sweet,
And the full moon high above you
That the spell might be complete?
Tell me, were you ever nearer
To the land of heart’s desire
Than when you sat there thinking
With your feet before the fire?
◆◆Cubmaster’s Minute 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans:
August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
“As we began our campfire this evening, we were reminded
of the Outdoor Code that we as members of the Boy Scouts of
America promise to do our best to uphold when we are in the
outdoors.
Our Scout Oath is a promise as well. It is a code to live by
every day of our lives. Let us close this evening by standing
and reciting the Scout Oath together followed by singing
‘Scout Vespers.’”
Closing/Cubmaster Minute Pow-Wow Book
Dear Parents: This planet, our Earth, is such a beautiful place
that we live on. It would be good if we could counsel with
our Cubs to keep these things in mind. They have eyes to
behold the red and purple sunsets. They have sharp ears to
hear the voice of the Great Spirit. Guide them to have hands
that respect the things God has made for them. Help them to
be wise and see the lessons hidden in every leaf and rock.
Help them to seek strength, not to be superior to others, but to
“help others”. Help them to DO Their Best along the
Scouting trail.
Sharp Knife Closing Pow-Wow Book
Cubmaster (showing a pocketknife: Cub Scouts, this is an
ordinary pocketknife. Maybe you own one. If you don’t, you
probably will get one when your parents will let you have one
or when you move into Boy Scouts. It is a very useful tool,
around camp. IF! Do you know what the “if” is for? If you
keep it clean and sharp.
IF you let a knife get dull and rusty, it is not only useless, it is
dangerous because it won’t be able to do what you want it to
do. It is very easy to cut yourself when you try to force a dull
knife to do something it cannot do.
The same idea applies to our bodies. IF our bodies are clean
and sharp…IF we are really fit…we won’t become dull and
rusty like a knife that has not been given good care. That is
why we exercise and play strenuous games. And, that is why
you want to keep your body fit now and in the coming years.
Will you “Do Your Best”?
Have all the Cub Scouts stand and give the Cub Scout motto.
CLOSING / FLAG CEREMONIES
Closing Ceremony Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Materials: U.S. flag; three cups of different colored crepe
paper bits (one red, one white, and one blue); glitter stars;
large pot; spotlight (optional)
Cub Scouts form a semicircle around the large pot. The flag is
folded and hidden in the pot. Each boy is holding the
ingredients that he will add.
Cub #1: We are going to fix a treat that is really grand, and
make for you a recipe—the greatest in the land.
Cub #2: First we’ll put in a heaping cup of red for courage
true. (He adds red paper bits to the pot.)
Cub #3: Then we will add, for loyalty, a dash of heavenly
blue. (He adds blue paper bits.)
Cub #4: For purity, we will now sift in a layer of snowy
white. (He sprinkles in white paper bits.)
Cub #5: We will sprinkle in a pinch of stars to make it come
out right. (He adds glitter.)
Cub #6: We will stir and stir, and then you will see that what
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
we have made is… (He uses a large spoon and pretends to
stir, taking care not to disturb the flag.)
All together (reaching and pulling out the American flag):
OLD GLORY.
Cub #1: Our flag is the most beautiful flag in the world. Let
us always be loyal to it.
Two of the boys hold the flag high. Lights out, spotlight on
the flag as curtain closes.
◆◆Closing
2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Scout Oath
(Recite in unison)
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.
6
SONGS
The Twelve Days of Summer Camp Cub Scouting and
Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Tune: “The 12 Days of Christmas”
On the first day of summer camp,
my mother sent to me
A box of oatmeal cookies.
On the second day of summer camp,
my mother sent to me
Two T-shirts and a box of oatmeal cookies.
On the third day of summer camp,
my mother sent to me
Three pairs of socks, two T-shirts,
and a box of oatmeal cookies.
(Continue with four large-brimmed hats, five pairs of
swimming trunks, six postage stamps, seven nose plugs,
eight comic books, nine bars of soap, 10 Band-Aids, 11
shoestrings, and 12 bottles of suntan lotion.)
Cub Scout Vespers Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting
Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Tune: “O Tannenbaum”
As the night comes to this land,
On my promise I will stand.
I will help the pack to go,
As our pack helps me to grow.
I will always give goodwill.
And follow my Akela still.
And before I stop to rest,
I will do my very best.
◆◆“S’mores for Me”
My shoes have seen the bottom of the dirty fishy creek
My shoes have been all covered with the gooey middy cake
My shoes have seen the same ol’ socks for seven days this
week
My shoes do really stink!
Groovy, Radical and Awesome (repeat 2 times)
My shoes do really stink.
My shoes are torn and tattered climbing fences packed in
rust
My shoes are stained and spattered with some yucky insect
guts
My shoes are oozing slime and fill my mom with disgust
My shoes have bit the dust!
Groovy, Radical and Awesome (repeat 2 times)
My shoes have bit the dust!
2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Tune: “Hail, Hail the Gang’s All Here”
S’mores, s’mores, it’s s’mores for me!
They’re all gooey gooey,
Always nice and chewy.
S’mores, s’mores it’s s’mores for me!
Let’s go make some s’mores right now.
S’mores, s’mores, it’s s’mores for me!
Brown and oh so toasty,
How we like to roasty.
S’mores, s’mores, it’s s’mores for me!
Lovely sandwich made for fun.
◆◆Scout Vespers
My Shoes Pow-Wow Book
(Battle Hymn of the Republic)
My shoes have seen the glory of the growing of a Scout.
My shoes have been in water steppin’in and steppin” out.
My shoes have hiked through forests to the top of the
mount
My shoes are wearing out!
Groovy, Radical and Awesome (repeat 2 times)
My shoes are wearing out!
2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Tune: “Tannenbaum”
Softly falls the light of day,
While our campfire fades away.
Silently each Scout should ask:
“Have I done my daily task?
Have I kept my honor bright?
Can I guiltless sleep tonight?
Have I done and have I dared
In everything to be prepared?”
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
Kum Ba Yah Pow-Wow Book
Kum ba yah my Lord, Kum ba yah
Kum ba yah my Lord, Kum ba yah
Kum, ba yah my Lord, Kum ba yah
Oh Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone’s crying, Lord, Kum ba yah
Someone’s crying, Lord, Kum ba yah
Someone’s crying, Lord, Kum ba yah
Oh Lord, Kum ba yah.
Someone’s laughing Lord, Kum ba yah
Someone’s laughing Lord, Kum ba yah
Someone’s laughing Lord, Kum ba yah
Oh Lord, Kum ba yah.
Other verses:
Someone’s singing, Lord
Someone’s praying Lord
7
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Audience Participation
GOING TO THE BEACH Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting
Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Divide the audience into six groups. Assign each group a part to
perform when their designated word is read in the story:
• Beach: Shade eyes with one hand and say, “Sand, sand, everywhere!”
• Cub Scout: Stand, show the Cub Scout salute, and say, “Do Your
Best!”
• Swim: Make swimming motions with your arms while saying,
“Stroke, stroke!”
• Water: “Splash, splash!”
• Food: “Yum, yum!”
• Kids: “Are we there yet?”
Summertime had arrived at last. School was out, and the KIDS in the
Wilson family were all looking forward to their first trip to the
BEACH. All of the chores were done and it was time to pack the car.
Mom was trying to pack the FOOD in the picnic basket, but was having
trouble getting the sandwiches wrapped before the youngest KIDS
could grab them. “Why don’t you KIDS go out to the car and help your
father?” Mom suggested. As soon as the KIDS had left the kitchen,
Chad, a helpful CUB SCOUT, said, “What can I do to help you,
Mom?” “Get some WATER and ice for the punch, Chad,” said Mom.
Together, Mom and her helpful CUB SCOUT managed to finish
packing all the FOOD.
Meanwhile, Dad had finished packing the car. “All right, KIDS, it’s
time to get in the car and drive to the BEACH,” Dad said. “It will take
us about half an hour to drive to the BEACH, so relax and enjoy
yourselves, KIDS.”
When they finally arrived at the BEACH, the KIDS couldn’t wait to get
in the WATER and SWIM. Chad, the helpful CUB SCOUT,
volunteered to help with the other KIDS. “Hold my hand, Jimmy,” said
Chad, the CUB SCOUT. “Don’t get in the WATER over your knees,
because you don’t know how to SWIM. We’ll wade right here in the
shallow WATER near the rocks on the BEACH.”
“Lunch is ready,” called Mom. “Come and get your FOOD.” After they
had finished lunch and Mom had packed, the KIDS decided to build a
sand castle on the BEACH, near the WATER. When it was time to
leave the BEACH and head for home, Chad, the helpful CUB SCOUT,
helped gather the toys.
“Thanks for taking us to the BEACH, Mom and Dad!” shouted all the
KIDS. “We sure had a good time SWIMMING and playing on the
BEACH.”
“And thanks for helping us at the BEACH, Chad. We’re glad to have a
CUB SCOUT in the family,” Mom and Dad told their oldest son.
IN WANT OF SUNSCREEN Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting
Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Divide the audience into four groups. Assign each group a part to
perform when their designated word is read in the story:
• Vance: “I love to swim!”
• Swim or Swimming: “Splash, splash, splash!”
• Cub Scouts: “Do your best!”
• Sunscreen: “Aaaaaaaaaah, Ooooooooooo!”
The day of the summer pack meeting was hot and dry. That was good,
because it was to be a SWIMMING party. The CUB SCOUTS and their
families were to meet at the Millers’ house at noon.
VANCE started getting ready at 9 o’clock in the morning. He loved to
SWIM. He had just completed SWIMMING lessons at the local
SWIMMING pool, and had his card stating that he had passed
Advanced Beginners. He knew all his Cub Scout friends would be
surprised. It was just last year that VANCE could not SWIM at all.
VANCE found his SWIMMING suit and his towel and even his flipflops without any trouble. But search as he might, he could not find his
SUNSCREEN. This was terrible. All the CUB SCOUTS had learned at
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
one of the den meetings about the importance of always using
SUNSCREEN. “Where are you, SUNSCREEN?” asked VANCE as he
started looking through the house again. It was almost time for the
SWIMMING party. He didn’t want to be late.
That was when he found it. Way in the back of the bathroom drawer,
there was the SUNSCREEN. He grabbed it, but to his dismay, the tube
felt very light. Oh no! The SUNSCREEN tube was empty. Try as he
might, VANCE could not squeeze out even one little drop. What could
he do? Just then, VANCE’s big brother Weston came bursting through
the kitchen door. “What’s the matter?” he asked when he saw VANCE
sitting dejectedly in the living room. “I’m all out of SUNSCREEN so I
can’t go SWIMMING with the CUB SCOUTS,” was the reply. “Here,
you can use mine,” said Weston, tossing his little brother a new tube of
SUNSCREEN.
VANCE couldn’t believe it. Just that fast, his problem was solved.
“Thanks, Wes,” VANCE shouted as he headed out the door to the
SWIMMING party with the CUB SCOUTS. And for a whole week, he
didn’t say one bad thing about his brother!
The Happy Hikers Pow-Wow Book
Narrator: We’re going on a hike. Just Do what I do and listen carefully.
(Begin walking in place).
Here we go on a hike through the woods and over the mountains.
Come along with me. (smile, wave and hike in place).
We’re coming to a steep hill. (bend over as if climbing)
Now we’re on top. What a lovely view! (shade eyes and look around)
Now, we’ll have to go down. (move hand like going down a roller
coaster and say “swoosh”)
Boy, we’re out of breath. (breath heavily)
Now, we’re passing through a meadow. (hike in place)
What’s that I see? (stop, look to one side)
It’s a rabbit! And a meadowlark. (look up)
And a bumble bee! (run swiftly in place, waving arms as if fighting off
a bee)
We’re happy hikers. (hike in place)
We’re happy because of the beautiful mountains we see. (shade eyes
and smile)
And because of all that clean fresh air we are breathing. (breathe
heavily)
And especially because we got away from the buzzing bee. (smile, turn
head to look behind you and wave “bye” to bee)
Now we’re getting tired. (slow pace, walk droopily)
There’s what we need! (point)
A cool refreshing drink from the river. (pick up pace, kneel down and
scoop water to mouth)
Ahhh, how refreshing. Let’s be on our way! (hike in place)
Now let’s try to jump over the river without getting our feet wet. (take
big step, get feet wet, shake them off)
Oh well, don’t feel too bad about not making it. That was a wide river.
At least we have cool toes. (shake feet again)
We’d better stop for lunch. (stop, reach in pocket, bring out sandwich,
start eating, take handkerchief from pocket, wipe mouth, replace
handkerchief, resume hiking in place)
Mmmmmmm, that feels better. Look, there’s a lovely lake. (point)
Let’s swim across. (swim strokes)
That was great! (resume hiking in place)
Look at that crooked trail ahead. (point)
It’s nothing but twists and turns. (continue hiking…twisting and
turning)
I’m glad that’s over. I was gettingg dizzy. (stagger)
Looks like we have come to the end of the trail. (stop)
What do we do now? Are you tired? (shake head YES!)
So am I. That was a good hike. (sit down, wipe brow)
8
CHEERS / RUN-ONS / JOKES
Cheer or Applause Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable
Planning Guide 2015-2016
SUMMER STORM APPLAUSE
Divide the audience into three groups and have each group practice
their sound and action.
• Group #1: Make a “wooshing” sound and sweep arms upward.
• Group #2: Stomp feet and make a motion of hail falling.
• Group #3: Make a sizzling sound like lightning striking, with one
arm moving in a long Z shape.
As the Cubmaster points to each group, they make their sound and
action. Switch back and forth, then motion for all groups to perform
their parts at the same time.
MARSHMALLOW CHEER
Put your marshmallow on a stick and hold it over the fire. It catches
fire. Hurry and blow it out. Cool it, and say, “Just right!”
2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub
Scout Fun
A Stirring Round of Applause: Move one hand as if stirring
something in front of you while clapping with your other hand on
your knee.
Marshmallow Cheer: Put your marshmallow on a stick, and hold it
over the fire. It catches fire. Hurry and blow it out. Cool it. And say,
‘Now that’s S’more Cub Scout Fun’
Cheers: Pow-Wow Book
Bear Hug a Tree Cheer: Give yourself a Big Bear Hug just like a
tree.
Long Hike Cheer: Stomp your feet loudly six times, shuffle your
feet softly three times then say “Boy, I’m tired.”
Longer Hike Cheer: Stomp your feet loudly six times, shuffle your
feet softly Six times then whine “Are we there yet?”
End of Hike Cheer: Throw hands up in the air and yell, “We made
it!” and collapse.
Foil Dinner Cheer: RAW…RAW…RAW!
Superscout Cheer: Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful
than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound It’s
Superscout!
Cub Scout Yell: Do your Best! Be Prepared! Shout! Shout!
Shout! Wolf Cub! Bear Cub! Webelos Scout!
Jokes, Run-ons Cheers and Jest for Fun Pow-Wow Book
What is the best way to keep a skunk from smelling?…Hold his
nose!
If you were facing East, what would be on your left hand?....Fingers!
What kind of an insect does your uncle like best?....Ants!
Why did the hamburger look sad?....It was grounded!
What do spiders eat with their hamburgers?....French Flies!
What does a bumble bee chew?....Bumble Gum!
What is green and pecks on trees?....Woody Wood Pickle!
Cub 1: Why are you crying?
Cub 2: I cleaned the bird cage and the canary disappeared.
Cub 1: How did you clean it?
Cub 2: With the vacuum cleaner!
Cub 1: I wear out a pair of hiking boots in a month!
Cub 2: I wear out a pair of Scout pants in a week!
Cub 3: That’s nothing. I wear out a leader in 20 minutes!
SKITS
GOING THE DISTANCE Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting
Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Cub Scouts start out on a walk.
Cub #1 (stopping): I’m thirsty.
All pretend to get a drink and continue walking.
Cub #2 (stopping): I’m hot.
All wipe their faces and continue walking.
Cub #3 (stopping): I’m hungry.
All pretend to eat and continue walking.
Cub #4 (stopping): My shoestring is undone.
All tie their shoestrings and continue walking. Make up as many
reasons as you want so that other boys can have a part.
Last Cub Scout: This sure has been a long walk. How far have
we gone?
Cub #1 (looking back): Across the stage!
DIRTY SOCKS Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable
Planning Guide 2015-2016
Materials: 1-gallon can filled with water; stirring stick; pair of
socks soaking in the can; three coffee mugs
Cub #4 enters and puts down the can. He stirs it for several
seconds and then leaves.
Cub #1 enters carrying his mug. He dips it into the can and
brings it up to his lips, pretending to drink.
Cub #1: This camp coffee is getting worse!
Cub #2 enters and does the same.
Cub #2: This camp tea is getting worse!
Cub #3 enters and repeats the action.
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
Cub #3: This camp cocoa is getting worse!
Cub #4 re-enters the scene, walks to the can, dips his hands in,
and takes out two wet socks.
Cub #4 (wringing out the stocks and looking pleased): I knew
this would get them clean!
Fifteen Steps To Building A Campfire! Pow-Wow Book
1. Split dead limb into fragments and shave one fragment
into slivers.
2. Bandage left thumb.
3. Chop other fragments into smaller fragments.
4. Bandage left foot.
5. Make structure of slivers (include those embedded in
hand).
6. Light Match.
7. Light Match.
8. Repeat, “A Scout is cheerful” and light match.
9. Apply match to slivers, add wood fragments and blow
gently into base of fire.
10. Apply burn ointment to nose.
11. When fire is burning, collect more wood.
12. Upon discovering that fire has gone out while out
searching for more wood, soak wood from can labeled
“kerosene.”
13. Treat face and arms for second-degree burns.
14. Relabel can to read “gasoline.”
15. When fire is burning well, add all remaining firewood.
16. When thunderstorm passes, repeat steps 1 through 15!
9
GAMES & ACTIVITIES
SHADOW TAG Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
A twist on traditional tag, this game should be played outdoors. To tag a person out, you must step in their shadow. This can be tricky,
depending on the time of day you play. Set a two-minute limit for being “It” to keep the game moving.
Activity
GETTING READY FOR A HIKE Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
• In a small plastic pool or on a table, place numerous items that are needed for a hike (e.g., bottle of water, suntan lotion, hats). Also include
items that do not belong on a hike; for example, add sweaters if it is summertime, toys, or maybe even fake ice cream.
• Give each Cub Scout a pencil and paper to write down all the items in the collection that are needed for a hike. When everyone is finished,
check their lists to see who selected all the right items. Then explain why such items are important, especially ones that were forgotten in the
packing.
PROJECT: S’MORE NECKERCHIEF SLIDE Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Materials: brown and black craft foam (twice as much brown as black), cotton balls, PVC ring, hot glue
Cut the craft foam into small rectangles, about half the size of a business card. Now layer the rectangles just like a s’more, and glue them
together along one long edge. Attach the PVC ring to the same area.
Earth, Water, Air and Fire Pow-Wow Book
(needed: one bean bag)
The Cubs sit in a circle with one Cub in the center holding the bean bag. He throws the bean bag at someone and shouts EARTH or WATER
or AIR or FIRE.
If it is EARTH…the chosen Cub must reply with the name of an animal before the center Cub counts to ten.
If it is WATER…he must think of a fish
If it is AIR…then a bird
If it is FIRE…the whistle for a Fire Engine.
Once a creature has been named, it may not be called again. If the Cub cannot reply in time, he changes places with the thrower.
Shadow Stomp Game Pow-Wow Book
This game is like tag, but you chase the shadow instead of the player. In this game, IT must stomp on the other player’s shadows instead of
tagging him. (so you need sunshine or good light to play this game.)
Grasshopper Relay Pow-Wow Book
Have your Cubs line up in two lines. The first player in each holds a beanbag or ball firmly between his knees. At the signal, he hops to the
goal line and back to the starting point where he hands the bag to the next “grasshopper” in line.
If a ball or beanbag is dropped, the Cub can put it back between his knees and keep going. The first line to finish is the winner.
Caterpillar Race Pow-Wow Book
This is best played outside in the grass. Divide the group into a team with two Cubs each. Then have them get down on their hands and
knees, one behind the other. The one in back holds on to both ankles of the Cub in front of him…looking like a caterpillar. On signal, the
Cubs creep toward the finish line, slowly to get the idea of “team work” and then moving as fast as they can toward the finish line. Be sure to
have your camera ready for some terrific shots!
SNACKS
NOTE: Be aware of food allergies and diet restrictions.
◆◆S’mores! 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Enjoy s’mores if there are no allergy issues. Each boy receives a baggie with graham crackers, chocolate bars, marshmallows. Safety note:
Please remind the Scouts not to hold the marshmallow straight up after it has been heated or is on fire as hot marshmallow can drip down
upon them.
Items needed to make s’mores at the end of the meeting/campfire, including roasting sticks.
PACK IDEAS
◆◆Storytellers: 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
Good storytellers help make stories come to life right before our eyes. Remind the audience of campfire etiquette and good manners before
the story begins. Flashlights should remain off. Ask them to be courteous and not talk during the story, unless the storyteller is interacting
with the audience requesting answers. Encourage the guest speaker to limit remarks to no more than five or six minutes, in keeping with the
attention spans of the youngest participants.
◆◆Guest Speaker Suggestions: 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
• Forest ranger
• Park ranger
• Scout leaders (pack, troop, or crew leadership)
• Chartered partner representative
• Local craftspeople
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
10
◆◆Before the Campfire 2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans:
August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
• Use the campfire planner on the resource page to help
you plan your campfire. This will help you follow the
flames and provide a memorable campfire.
• Encourage all dens of the pack to participate and sign up
for a part of the campfire.
• Distribute skits and other assignments that the dens
signed up for at least two weeks before the pack meeting.
• Have a “Plan A” and a “Plan B” by preparing for an
indoor or outdoor campfire. This way you are prepared for
weather conditions and possible local fire restrictions.
Note: You can make a simulated campfire by using red
cellophane and battery operated lights in a log/stick frame.
• Provide information to the parents and guardians
regarding date, time, and location of the campfire if other
than your normal pack meeting date, time, and location.
• Provide campfire safety by assigning adults to check on
and secure local permits that may be required. They will be
responsible for building and lighting the fire, tending the
fire, and putting out the fire when the campfire is over.
Consider using a Boy Scout troop or venture crew for this
assignment. Note: verify there is no fire ban in your area.
• Make sure that all material to be performed at the
campfire is screened to make certain that it is appropriate.
Remember this guideline: “When in doubt, throw it out.”
• If there is a special guest speaker or storyteller, appoint
someone to confirm their attendance at the campfire. Make
sure the guest knows of any time limits.
Items for the campfire
— Fire ring
— Shovel
— Bucket of water
— Tinder
— Kindling
— Fuel log
Fire starter or matches
Cub Scout sign to help quiet things down.
• If you use the planner and follow the flames, your
campfire will be well-paced and entertaining for the boys
and will lead to better behavior.
Follow the Flames:
When the flames are high, the energy is high—action songs
and loud stunts get everyone into the mood. As the fire dies
down, so does the tone—move to more quiet, reflective
songs, a good story, and a Cubmaster’s minute to close the
evening. There should be no reason for adding firewood—
let the fire die to embers, and follow the flames with the
pace and tone of your program.
Screening Campfire Program Material:
Some basic “No’s” in a campfire program include the
following:
• No embarrassing an audience member
• No racial put-downs
• No cultural put-downs
• No portraying violent behavior
• No bathroom humor
• No water skits
• No sexual overtones
• No material that is not consistent with BSA standards.
When in doubt, throw it out.
◆◆Extinguish the Campfire 2015-2016 Pack Meeting
Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
After everyone has had a chance to eat s’mores, make sure
the campfire is extinguished properly by your preassigned
fire safety individuals.
Campfire Etiquette:
• Before the campfire begins, let the pack know what type
of behavior is expected.
• If you walk the pack members to the campfire area
quietly, this will help set the tone as you enter the campfire
area and help boys get ready for the opening lighting
ceremony.
• Have the Scouts all turn on their flashlights. Have them
point them up, down, right, and left. Then ask them to turn
them off for the rest of the campfire program.
• If things get a little noisy during the program, just use the
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
Campfires:
If you cannot have a real campfire, a mock campfire is easy
to do as well! Gather stones to make a fire ring. Next
gather fuel logs or sticks and build as you would for a real
fire. Cardboard tubes can be decorated to look like logs as
well. Place a large flashlight (use two if you’d like) in the
center where the flames would be. The light should shine
upward. Use orange, yellow, and red tissue paper or
cellophane to make mock flames coming from the center of
the logs. The light of flashlight will illuminate the tissue
paper to make it look like it is glowing! Some people like
to use an electric campfire. They can be purchased online
or instructions for making one can be found online as well.
11
RESOURCES
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
12
CM Courteous / S'More Cub Scout Fun August 2016
13
SITED WORKS
BSA Pack Meeting Plans:
http://www.scouting.org/licensing/sitecore/content/home/cubscouts/leaders/denleaderresources/denandpackmeetingresourceguide/packmeetingplans.aspx
2015-2016 Pack Meeting Plans: August: Courteous – S'More Cub Scout Fun
http://www.scouting.org/filestore/cubscouts/pdf/YEAR1/310-842(15)_August%20Courteous_WEB.pdf
Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016:
http://www.scouting.org/filestore/boyscouts/pdf/510-714_WEB.pdf
TRAINING
CUB SCOUT INTEREST TOPIC
Recruiting Adult Help Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Lead a discussion on the importance of not only assistant den leaders but also all adult help.
Use the following as talking points.
• Understand that very few adults will volunteer to help; most will wait to be asked.
• Make use of the Family Talent Survey Sheet.
• Many adults will be hesitant to help if they weren’t Scouts as youth. Remind them that some of the best Scout leaders in our council
weren’t Scouts when they were growing up, and that training is offered to fill in key knowledge gaps.
• Call your monthly pack leader meetings “pack parent meetings” to eliminate the stigma that the meeting is just for pack leaders.
• Mention key open leader positions during your pack meetings.
• Try to recruit two den leaders for each den.
• Work hard at all levels to make adult leaders feel that they are part of a team and appreciated.
• Conduct an annual pack planning meeting in the summer and encourage all pack families to be represented there.
Monthly Pack Activity
PACK CAMPFIRE Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
What a perfect way to end the summer. Use the Campfire Program Planner (www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/33696.pdf) to plan a
campfire. If fire restrictions or weather prevent the use of a fire, hold the event without that element.
It will be just as much fun!
Cubmasters
DISCUSSION TOPIC: Den Displays at Pack Meetings Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Lead a discussion on den participation in pack meetings, with a focus on den displays. Dens should have an active part in every pack
meeting, and this is one of the best ways to get them involved. Each month could feature some displays by one or more assigned dens,
or all dens could have displays every month. It all depends on the size of your pack and what else you have going on at the pack
meetings. Bringing visible results of the den program to the pack has many benefits. A den display:
• Offers the boys (and their leaders) a wonderful chance to enthusiastically showcase their work with pride. This reinforces den spirit.
• Allows parents to see what their sons have been doing at den meetings, and gives them an opportunity to compliment their sons and
the den leadership.
• Gives younger boys something exciting to look forward to as they progress to more advanced dens.
Has anyone tried this in their pack? Discuss what might be included in den displays. Here are just a few possibilities:
• Advancement projects from each Cub Scout
• Den projects that involve all members of the den
• Photos and mementos of den outings and meetings
• Advancement chart for the den
• Den doodle
Discuss how to make sure items show up and are properly displayed. It should not be up to the den leader to put the whole display
together! Each Cub Scout should bring something and all should come early and help set up the display.
• The displays should be where people will walk past them naturally.
• Enough space should be provided, with the items arranged in an orderly fashion so each boy’s work can be seen and appreciated.
• The den number should be prominently displayed, and each Cub Scout’s work should be labeled with his name.
• The Cubmaster should take time during the pack meeting to “officially” praise the Cub Scouts for the work shown in their displays.
• Each boy needs to take his own materials home at the end of the pack meeting!
Pack Leaders
DISCUSSION TOPIC: Recruiting Boys Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting Roundtable Planning Guide 2015-2016
Every boy deserves the opportunity to become a Scout. One job of the pack leaders is to provide him with that opportunity. Lead a
discussion on recruiting boys into the pack, using the ideas in the BSA pamphlet Recruiting Ideas for Cub Scout Leaders, which can
be downloaded at www.scouting.org/filestore/membership/pdf/RecruitingIdeas.pdf.
In-School Rally (aka Boy Talk). This is a short (five- to seven-minute) presentation by a pack leader, during recess or lunchtime. It
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should be an enthusiastic show-and-tell session, complete with details about the FUN the boys can have in Cub Scouts. (Note: Some
school districts do not permit in-school presentations. If it is allowed in your district, you will of course need permission from the
principal and cooperation from teachers.) At the end of your talk, give each boy a flier inviting him and his parents to an evening pack
event, where the family can get more details and sign him up to become a Cub Scout. Have current Cub Scouts wear uniforms to
school that day so they are clearly identified as Scouts, and urge them to “talk it up” at lunch, at recess, and on the bus.
Fall/Spring Recruiting Event. Plan fun pack activities that will entice elementary–aged boys to check out Cub Scouting. This may be
simply inviting potential recruits to an already scheduled activity, or it can be a separate event focused primarily on recruiting. Some
ideas for an event include an outdoor games day, swim party, bike rodeo, treasure hunt or geocaching, or an ice cream social.
• Be sure to send out invitations (fliers at school, email) to possible guests.
• Give existing Cub Scouts an incentive to invite a friend—or LOTS of friends. This could be a patch (official recruiter patch, if
appropriate), a small prize, a nominal gift card, or whatever works best with your boys and your budget.
• Have a sign-in sheet at the event to get contact information
for all guests.
• Provide light refreshments (water, lemonade,
cookies, chips).
• Have a display board with pictures—or even better, a video or slide show—of the Cub Scouts and families enjoying pack and den
activities.
• Have current Cub Scouts and leaders in uniform or pack T-shirts. This a great form of advertising.
• Have pack leadership primed and ready with information packets and “Join Scouting” forms (youth and adult) to sign up recruits. No
need for high pressure, but if families are ready to sign up, by all means, “close the deal”!
PTA/PTO Packet Pickup/School Registration/Back-to- School Night/School-Sponsored Parent Information Nights. These
school events are usually held a few days or weeks before or after the fall semester starts, and are often staffed and organized by the
PTA or PTO. Get permission to set up a table at your school’s function. Put up your display board or laptop with a video or slide show
of fun photos, and offer informational fliers with a brief description of Cub Scouting and specifics about joining your pack. Have a
contact information sheet for parents to provide their names and email addresses for follow-up. See if any pack leaders are working
the event as PTA or PTO volunteers and ask them to wear their uniforms so they will be identifiable as Scouters. You can print out
name tags for the leaders that say, “Ask me about Cub Scouting!”
Yard Signs. Your local Scout council will provide your pack with yard signs to advertise your “Join Scouting” recruiting event. Place
signs with Scout–friendly families in local neighborhoods and the most traveled routes in your market area. Put up the signs about two
weeks before the event and leave them up for at least a week afterward (for those who may have missed the event). These signs also
tell people to look at BeaScout.org to find their local Scouting units. Make sure your pack has current information on BeaScout.org, so
people can find you!
Banners or Posters. Make or purchase these to display and hand out at school and at neighborhood locations. Make all signs bright
and in large print. The banners should be generic and reusable, with the phrase “Join Scouting” on them. The posters should have
information about your pack and your “Join Scouting” recruiting event. Include the pack’s contact information for people who want to
know more.
Word-of-Mouth Advertising. As with any product, word of mouth is always the cheapest and best promotion. Your existing Cub
Scouts (and families) are a great source for new Scouts. Remind all your Cub Scouts, throughout the year, to invite other boys to
attend den and pack meetings—their friends and neighbors, new kids at school or on the bus, and friends from Sunday school, sports
teams, summer school, and other places. Give the boys a small incentive or recognition item when they bring a friend to a den or pack
meeting. Boys can also wear their uniforms to school on den and pack meeting days. Have them talk about camping, archery, BB
shooting, and pinewood derby. If their class has a show-and-tell, suggest they bring a Scouting–related item (especially a first-place
pinewood derby trophy!). Just demonstrating how much fun there is in Cub Scouting will make other boys want to join.
Just One More Campaigns. Recruiting should be a yearround part of your pack’s program. Consider a Just One More campaign,
encouraging all of your dens to add “just one more” boy to their ranks. The boys can think about who to ask, and they aren’t limited to
inviting just one. Have them ask their friends, a shy boy at school who needs a friend, someone new to class or the neighborhood, etc.
If the den adds a boy, give them a shiny, spiffy certificate and great recognition at the next pack meeting, or some other type of
reward. The best part is that you don’t have to do much. Just get the boys motivated, and the friends they bring will come and stay for
the FUN.
Unit Publicity in the Local Paper. Community newspapers are often very willing to publish photos of your den and pack events. The
pack leadership should make sure that good pictures of every activity, along with a short enthusiastic article, are forwarded to the
paper. What could be better than looking at and reading about a pack family hike or the latest pinewood derby winners? Make sure
each article invites boys to join your pack and provides contact information for those who want to find out more. Note: Your pack
leadership team should have a couple of items always on hand to use at a recruiting event or to use if a Cub Scout brings a friend to a
pack meeting, or someone shows up after reading about the pack in the newspaper. These items could include:
• A pack information sheet with some important general Cub Scouting facts, plus specific information about the pack and its
personnel.
• A full-year pack calendar to show prospective Cub Scouts and families some of the fun that has gone by and the fun that lies ahead.
• A display board, slide show, or video of pack activities during the past year, showing the Cub Scouts and families enjoying
themselves.
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